FAQs
Choosing a care home, for yourself or someone you love, is a big decision. Since 1987, we’ve helped families across Fife through it, and we’re always happy to talk things through. If your question isn’t answered here, call us on 01592 775558 or use our Enquire Now form.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right home
Where are your homes?
We have seven homes across Fife: Raith Manor in Kirkcaldy, Tayside View in Newburgh, Headwell House in Dunfermline, Bayview in Methil, Strathburn Lodge in Glenrothes, Chambers Court in Cowdenbeath and Castlegait Manor in East Wemyss. Each has its own character, and many families choose a home close to friends and family so visiting is easy.
What types of care do you offer?
Across our homes we provide Residential, Nursing, Dementia, Respite, Specialist (including support for adults with learning disabilities and mental health) and End of Life Care. Not every home offers every type of care, so we’ll help you find the one that fits. You can read more on our [Our Care] page.
How do I know which home is right?
Tell us a little about the person who needs care: their health, routines and what matters to them. We’ll suggest the homes best suited to their needs and location. There’s no pressure and no obligation.
Can I visit before deciding?
Of course, and we’d encourage it. Arrange a visit to look around, meet the manager and team, and get a feel for everyday life in the home. Contact the home directly or use our Enquire Now form to book.
What happens before someone moves in?
We’ll meet to talk about their needs, health, routines and preferences, and carry out a care assessment. From that, we put together a personal care plan, so the team knows how to support them from the day they arrive.
If the home is not right after we have moved in can we change our mind?
We hold an assessment after 6 weeks with Social Care. If we all agree the home is not right for your loved one, you are able to leave and find a new home of your choosing.
Life at Abbotsford Care
Will I have my own room?
Yes, every resident has their own bedroom. Layouts and facilities, such as en-suite bathrooms, vary between homes, so we’ll talk you through what’s available at the home you’re interested in.
Can I bring my own things?
Please do. Photos, ornaments, a favourite chair or a familiar blanket can make a room feel like home straight away. Just check with the home about larger items before moving day.
Can family and friends visit?
Yes, families are always welcome. They’re an important part of life at Abbotsford, and we understand how much it matters to stay close to loved ones. Each home can tell you about any arrangements around mealtimes or visiting
What activities are there?
Every home has its own programme, shaped around what residents enjoy, from music, crafts and games to garden time, outings and visits from the local community.
Can residents choose how they spend their day?
Absolutely. We respect each person’s choices, from when they get up and what they eat to how they spend their day. We support residents to maintain their independence, at their own pace and in the ways that matter most to them.
What if care needs change?
Our teams closely monitor each resident’s wellbeing and regularly review care plans with residents, families and health professionals, including GPs. If a resident’s needs change, we’ll discuss the options together, including whether another of our homes could provide more suitable support.
Care and support
Do you offer short stays?
Yes. Respite care offers short-term support, whether after a hospital stay or illness, or to give a family carer a break. It’s also a gentle way to try out a home. Availability varies, so contact the home to check
How do you support people living with dementia?
Everyone’s experience of dementia is different. Our teams take time to learn each person’s life story, routines and preferences, and use that to offer reassurance, familiar comforts and meaningful days, with dignity at the centre of everything.
Do all your homes provide the same care?
Some of our homes specialise in dementia care, and some provide specialist support for adults with learning disabilities and mental health difficulties. Each home page lists the care it offers, or we can point you in the right direction.
How are your homes regulated?
All our homes are registered with the Care Inspectorate, which inspects care services in Scotland. You can read each home’s latest inspection report on the Care Inspectorate website.
How are your staff trained?
Training is at the heart of our care. Abbotsford has its own SQA-accredited Assessment Centre, through which our team can gain SVQ qualifications in Social Services and Healthcare, right up to SVQ 4 in Care Services Leadership and Management. So the people caring for your loved one are supported to keep learning and developing throughout their careers.
Fees and funding
How much does care cost?
Fees depend on the home, the type of care needed and individual circumstances. Contact us and we’ll explain the fees for your chosen home and exactly what’s included.
Is financial help available?
Possibly. In Scotland, adults assessed as eligible for free personal or nursing care can receive payments towards their care home fees, regardless of age, income or savings. Depending on your financial circumstances, your local council may also help with the remaining costs. The first step is to arrange a care needs assessment through Fife Health and Social Care Partnership, or your local council if you live outside Fife.
Do you accept council-funded residents?
Yes
What isn’t included in the weekly fee?
Our weekly fees cover accommodation, meals and snacks, laundry, personal and nursing care, and our activities programme. A few personal extras are charged separately, such as hairdressing, chiropody, toiletries, newspapers and magazines, clothing, and personal outings or escorts to appointments. Each home can give you a full list, so there are no surprises.